If you want to teach your ten year old or fourth grader how to code, there are several tips and tricks to making learning more fun while providing the structure needed to ensure they have a good handle on the fundamentals of computer science and programming.
There are many benefits of learning how to code. International schools are trying to incorporate special coding classes for aspiring candidates at a young age. As technology evolves, computers will become increasingly complex. At as early as ten year olds, kids can learn the fundamentals of logic and reasoning, which will provide them a solid foundation for advancing their digital literacy. Moreover, learning how to code will not just help in improving mathematical skills, but also writing literacy. It provides them with valuable skills to use in the future and eventually in the workplace.
Overview of Teaching 10 Year Old How To Code
The 10-years old is the ideal stage to start coding. At this age, they are able understand programming concepts. The newest generation of kids have been indoctrined into the world of online games, so instead of being consumers of technology, coding teaches them how to be creators instead, providing an opposite view of how technology can be used.
There are several instructional coding platforms available for 10-year olds on the market like MakeCode and Scratch It has never easier for kids to learn how to program. There are a multitude of games, toys, apps, and online coding classes available depending on how they like to learn.
Why Ten Year Olds Should Learn How to Code
Through proper coding classes, kids get to fix quickly and try multiple ways when things don't go out as planned. Coding helps kids with the ability to stick to a problem and work to come across a solution. Such problem-solving skills are transferable to multiple other fields. Listed below are some reasons why 10-years old should learn to code.
Coding Helps Kids Think Critically
Being able to code effectively requires kids to think logically, and ten year olds are definitely able to use their critical thinking skills for coding. Computer programming introduces challenges and allows kids to break them into smaller parts and iterate on best solutions to solve. It provides them a way to decompose complex problems into small solutions, allowing them to veer into computational thinking, which is a concept that kids can easily learn.
With Coding, 10-years old learn how to bounce back from problems and start afresh. Failure is not bad; Coding is one way to help them understand it. Overall, Coding serves as a learning opportunity.
Learning to Have Fun with Problem Solving
Learning the coding basics and computer programs will help children appreciate things from a new perspective. It helps them to know how software engineers are using the power of math to solve problems somewhat logically. The power to solve issues is a general trait proven to be helpful in real-life situations. You want your kids to be problem-solver, and learning how to code will kick start initiate that.
Expand Creativity Skills
Computer programming gives 10 year olds and fourth graders the chance to be creative and experiment. Children love feedback for anything, so this also provides an opportunity for parents and teachers to engage in their learning. Like learning to play a new sport or musical note, coding also needs motivation for positive reinforcement! The ability to learn critical thinking while blending in creativity skills provides kids a fun way to approach learning how to code.
Best Tips to Teach Your 10 Year Old How to Code
To make coding fun and thrilling for 10-years old, multiple apps and online resources are moving forward with the right tricks and tips. Listed below are some proven ways to help kids understand what Coding stands for and its importance.
Apps and Games for Teaching Kids How to Code
Young programmers can use new coding abilities to develop games, solve problems, and practice logical thinking, math, and reading. Here are some coding apps for kids that come in various educational styles to suit the needs of your 10 year old kid.
Hackety Hack
Noted as the older sibling of Kids Ruby, this program is for the advanced 10-years old who have already graduated from the basic Ruby coding programs.
Move the Turtle
With kids more engrossed in iPad these days, adding the Move the Turtle app is an intelligent move by parents. It is for kids from 9 to 11 years of age and will teach kids not just coding but some critical thinking skills as well!
Daisy the Dinosaur
Basic coding concepts can also be learned with this app. Once you have completed the game, your 10-years old will receive a downloadable kit to help create computer games.
Google’s Made with Code
Made with Code is a primary Google initiative to bridge the gender gap in STEM. Through some of the online resources, summer camps, and in-person parties, Google inspires all the young 10-years old, especially girls, to enjoy their inner programmer.
Hopscotch
Noted as a free iPad app for kids between 9 to 11 years of age, Hopscotch consists of video tutorials to help kids program multiple games. Kids will not just create their games here but can play some more created by other 10-years old.
Offline and Online Coding Classes with Instructors
In structured coding classes, students generally learn how to code under the guidance of an instructor. Typically, the teacher instructs a subject to the students and allows the students to apply the knowledge through a fun activity. It is just the same as what the process of education in an online course.
Here are some of the popular online coding lessons or classes that your 10-year-old can take:
Scratch Coding
The logical explanation of Coding indeed remains the same throughout decades. But, there has been some evolvement in the methods over here. The Scratch Coding online classes are ideal for the 10-years old who are new in this field. It is a visual-centric Coding editor to help kids create fun animations, games, sounds, and interactive stories.
Scratch Coding will be a great addition to Coding and computational thinking. Through the online coding classes, kids will learn the excitement behind Coding.
Minecraft with Mods
Do you want your 10-years old to be an active member of a fun and creative Minecraft coding class? If so, then Minecraft with Mods is your call. These coding classes are full of problem-solving sessions, experiments for little ones, learning, and creativity. Once your little ones have mastered the essential art of Minecraft, like conquering Nether or brewing some portions, they get to learn ways to Mod various items to improve their current Minecraft skills.
Python game developer
Python Game developer has been a noteworthy coding class for 10-years old but follows an advanced format. It is perfect for those with some coding experience who are willing to progress to the next level. The kids will learn more about object-based programming and use the same skills to create interactive 2D games.
Coding Books for Ten Year Olds
Like games and movies, choosing the right programming books for your kids depends on the age category. For older kids of 10 years of age, it is vital to invest in workbooks to help them learn the core values of programming. The best books are available online and will present step-by-step guidance with chapter-style layouts and some internet resources.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ten year olds can easily learn the fundamental concepts of computer science, coding, and programming. At their developmental stage, they are learning multi-layered concepts, critical thinking, and solutioning ideas to complex problems.
Kids in fourth grade can learn how to code and program. At this grade level, their school curriculum generally has structured logic and critical thinking embedded as part of their education. Coding and programming generally requires a level of being able to understand how to solution as a multi-tiered approach, which fourth graders generally are able to handle.
Final Thoughts on Teaching 10 Year Old Kids How to Code
With the help of proper resources, books, coding apps, parents and teachers can teach ten year old kids how to master the fundamentals of computer programming at ten years old. Kids at ten have the mental capacity to handle complex problems and create multi-layer solutions. Most parents and teachers may be surprised how well kids can learn computer science, especially with this evolving landscape of modern technology.
Teaching kids how to create technology instead of being consumers of technology will allow them to have a different point of view on using technology while also educating themselves on basic digital literacy fundamentals. Using these tips will allow kids of all ages master the concepts of computer science and endow them with skills they’ll be able to build on as the continue their journey into app and computer development.
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